Jim Kershner’s This day in history

From our archives, 100 years ago

The brutal 1910 winter weather continued to pound the region, with Colfax now taking the brunt.

Floodwaters blasted through the middle of town, forcing people to huddle in the upper stories of their homes. Many homes were swept downstream.

The Spokane & Inland Railroad depot floated free from its foundations and came to rest two blocks away.

The city was without lights, drinking water or fuel. To add to the misery, flood damage started a massive fire at a lime factory. Damages throughout Whitman County were estimated at $1 million.

From the love and marriage file: Meanwhile, a Spokane man was suing his wife for divorce, on the following grounds:

•He had not been allowed to put his arms around her or kiss her for four years.

•She made him go out to the saloon every night for a gallon of beer, which she would then drink, leaving him “only a little glass.”

Also on this date

1931: President Herbert Hoover signed a measure making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the national anthem of the United States. … 1991: Motorist Rodney King was severely beaten by Los Angeles police officers in a scene captured on amateur video.